The VERY Best Time to Visit Amsterdam for Tulips (2026)

Last Updated on December 20, 2025 by Lauren Allen

Wanna know the best time to visit Amsterdam for tulips? Then you’ve come to the right place! 

There’s just something so special about wandering through these dreamy landscaped gardens. Trust me, this is something that you need to add to your Netherlands bucket list.

If you’re heading there for the first time or don’t know much about tulip season, it can be difficult to plan your ideal trip. That’s where I come in. As a frequent visitor, I’m fully clued up on the top activities and how to make the most of your time.

Over the years, I’ve been on several spring getaways to Amsterdam and fell in love with the nearby picturesque tulip fields. In this post, I’ll share everything you need to know about exploring the Dutch capital (and surrounding areas) in tulip season.

Let’s jump right in… 

When is the best time to visit Amsterdam for tulips?

There are many fab reasons to visit Amsterdam. From the bustling nightlife and renowned museums to the vibrant colours of tulip season, it’s no wonder millions of tourists land in the city each year. But when should you go? 

The best time to see tulips in Amsterdam (and the surrounding areas) in 2026 is between the 19th of March and the 10th of May.

Each tulip garden and attraction will open on different dates, but this is when Keukenhof opens its doors to the public. This makes it a good indicator of the prime time to see some blooms.

Although tulip season starts in March, it takes a few weeks for most tulips to reach their peak. To see these world-famous flower fields at their prime, you should go between mid-April and mid-May. That way, you can avoid disappointment see them at their best.

Not one to miss out, I’ve spent my birthday (which is in mid-April) in Amsterdam for the past two years. Both times, the weather Gods treated me to glorious sunshine and blue skies.

In my experience, most florals were at their peak and despite the crowds, it was the highlight of my celebratory trips to the Netherlands. 

If it’s warm, taking a stroll around Keukenhof with an ice cream in hand is very memorable. Thousands of people hit up the gardens daily, but there’s plenty of space to enjoy some peaceful moments. For more info, read my complete guide on visiting Keukenhof.

Got a question about travelling in the Netherlands? Feel free to ask it in my Facebook group.

Amsterdam Tulip Festival

Tulip Festival Amsterdam takes place every spring. It celebrates the iconic tulip, which despite not originating in the Netherlands, is a huge part of local culture.

The event aims to showcase the diversity of tulip varieties while enhancing the city’s already picturesque landscape. If you’re an Instagram enthusiast or photographer (like me), you’ll be in your element.

One of the highlights of this renowned festival is the transformation of parks across Amsterdam. The likes of Vondelpark, Rembrandtpark and Amstelpark participate by planting lots of tulip displays.

This gives visitors the chance to see these pretty flowers against the backdrop of Amsterdam’s urban scenery and becomes one of the top things to do in the Dutch capital during spring.

Dutch Flower Parade

To truly experience tulip season, watching the flower parade is a must! Many creative volunteers from across the Netherlands craft these incredibly bold floral displays that countless people stop to admire. In 2026, it runs on Saturday the 18th of April.

There are several spots to watch the parade, including Keukenhof Boulevard, the town of Lisse and Haarlem (which is just a short journey from Amsterdam). It’s a busy event, but that doesn’t mean you should skip it. In my opinion, it’s well worth adding to your itinerary.

Top tip: While you can easily visit the nearby tulip fields afterwards, keep in mind that most people will have the same idea. If you’d prefer fewer crowds, you may want to change your plans. 

Amsterdam Tulip Museum

Located in the heart of Amsterdam, The Tulip Museum shares the story of tulips in the Netherlands.

As you walk around the museum, you’ll see art pieces and photography that will leave you in awe. It also shares insightful information about the tulip’s journey from its origins in Central Asia to becoming a symbol of this popular European country.

It’s just a stone’s throw away from the Anne Frank House, which makes it easy to pop in before (or after) seeing one of the top museums in Amsterdam. Plus, it’s completely free to visit with the Iamsterdam City Card. 

This guide covers unique facts about the Dutch tulip season.

Where to see tulips in the Netherlands

There are many places to find tulips in Amsterdam and beyond; you just need to know where to go. Most of the prettiest flower fields are in Lisse, Noordoostpolder or Bollenstreek. Some must-see spots include: 

• Rijksmuseum in Museumplein 
• Floating Flower Market 
• The world-famous Keukenhof Gardens
• Tulip Experience Amsterdam
• The Tulip Barn
• De Tulperi Tulip Farm
• Fam Flower Farm 
• The Bulb Region (Bollenstreek)
• Noordoostpolder
• Zaanse Schans 

To find out more, read my guide to the nicest tulip fields in the Netherlands.

How far is Amsterdam from the tulips?

It’s important to note that most of these spots are not in Amsterdam. Aside from the Rijksmuseum and local parks, they’re a short drive or train ride away. 

The only exception is Noordoostpolder. It takes around an hour to drive to this region from Amsterdam, but it’s a two-hour journey via public transport. If you don’t have a car, the tulip fields in Lisse are much easier to get to. 

Regardless, you’ll need to consider how you’ll get to the fields from where you’re staying in Amsterdam.

How to get to the tulip fields near Amsterdam

Throughout tulip season in Amsterdam, various tour companies organise day trips to the gardens in the countryside. It’s a much more convenient way to admire their beauty without the hassle of arranging transportation yourself.

However, if you want to escape the crowds and plan your own itinerary, joining a day tour isn’t a good idea. In that case, I recommend going it alone. Luckily, many fields are easily reachable from the city.

If you want to see as much as possible, hiring a car allows you to discover places on the flower map at your own pace. It’s also easier to get from A to B with your own wheels. 

If you don’t drive, you can reach the tulip gardens via public transport. The Keukenhof Express will take you from RAI station in Amsterdam straight to its doors in just over half an hour. With the Amsterdam and Region Travel Ticket, you can jump aboard the Keukenhof Express free of charge.

Once you’ve been to Keukenhof, you can rent a bike to visit other tulip fields nearby for a fun-filled day surrounded by nature. How good does that sound?

Check out my post on the Amsterdam and Region Travel Ticket for an HONEST review.

FAQs about visiting Amsterdam during tulip season

Conclusion

As one of the key events in the Netherlands each year, tulip season is a big deal. Not only is it a hit with locals, but millions of tourists visit each year to see the florals in full bloom.

If you’re yet to see tulip season in this beautiful country, I recommend planning an Amsterdam getaway. Even though the capital is extremely busy during spring, the atmosphere is amazing. Plus, nature lovers, Instagram enthusiasts and professional photographers will be in their element. 

The gardens are usually open from March until mid-May, but April is the perfect time to experience tulip season near Amsterdam. It’s always been the highlight of my adventures.

Simply put, it’s something that you can’t miss if you’re visiting at this time of year.

If I’ve inspired you to get off the beaten path, read my guide to the best weekend trips from Amsterdam.